Cedar Saunas are the Perfect Choice

Cedar saunas are the most popular and most practical saunas in use today. The wood is incomparable for its quality and durability, and the pleasant aroma is the one that most people associate with saunas.

Because of its beautiful color, fine-grained texture, and long-lasting properties, cedar is the ideal wood for building your own sauna - indoors and outdoors.

Cedar saunas are built largely from the wood of the Western Red Cedar which grows in coastal forests ranging from British Columbia to Washington and Oregon. These are environmentally friendly and managed forests, and the harvests are carefully controlled so that reforestation programs can keep pace with demand for cedar wood.

Properties of Cedar Wood for Sauna Use

Cedar wood is chosen for sauna use because the cellular structure of cedar wood offers excellent heat insulation qualities. It’s also free of pitch and resin and can be finished to a beautiful uniform surface in warm colors including clear amber, reddish cinnamons and rich sienna browns. Carpenters will tell you it’s an easy wood to work with and it even exceeds fire regulations. But that’s not all. Cedar saunas offer these advantages:

• Lightweight and thermal efficient
• Dimensionally stable which means it lies flat and straight
• Tolerates the high heat of a sauna
• Cedar resists cracking better than hardwoods
• Rot and decay resistant
• Moisture dries faster in cedar than hardwoods
• Contains natural oils that act as preservatives to protect the wood
• Saunas built with cedar are bacterial and fungus resistant
• Provides acoustic insulation
• Cedar has 80% the strength of oak
• Requires little maintenance
• Lasts for years

Because of the extremely high and dry temperatures found in saunas, the wood material is subject to a lot of abuse. Cedar is a low density wood that can handle the hot air of the sauna, yet the benches are cool enough to sit on.

The Aroma of Cedar Wood

You can tell cedar by its unique aroma which can be described as balsamic and woody. That aroma, in fact, is what makes cedar a popular choice for storage chests and closet liners.

It comes from naturally occurring organic compounds in its heartwood called thujaplicins that emit a pleasant aroma to humans but which are toxic to fungi, insects, moths and other wood pests.

Most people find cedar’s fragrance to be relaxing and meditative, but some individuals with wood allergies don’t tolerate the oils in the wood well and must avoid this type of sauna.

But other than that, there’s no reason not to choose cedar as it is a completely safe wood and offers amazing benefits that other woods just can’t compare to. It’s not hard to see why cedar saunas are the perfect choice to install in your home or yard.

Health Benefits of Cedar Saunas

Adding cedar wood to your sauna can enhance the wellness experience beyond traditional heat therapy:

1. Detoxification: Heat promotes sweating, helping the body eliminate toxins and impurities.
2. Skin Health: Aromatic oils in cedar may improve skin cleansing and hydration.
3. Respiratory Relief: Warm, dry air helps open nasal passages, supporting easier breathing.
4. Muscle Relaxation: Heat relaxes muscles and soothes aches and joint pain.
5. Mental Relaxation: The aroma of cedar promotes calmness and stress reduction.

Maintenance Tips for Cedar Saunas

To ensure your cedar sauna lasts for decades:

• Regular Cleaning: Wipe surfaces after each use to remove sweat and oils.
• Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Use mild, natural cleaners to protect the wood.
• Ventilation: Ensure proper airflow to prevent mold or mildew.
• Periodic Oiling: Apply cedar-specific oils to maintain luster and prevent drying.

Cedar Sauna FAQs

1. Can I use cedar for outdoor saunas?

Yes, cedar’s durability and natural oils make it ideal for outdoor conditions.

2. How long will a cedar sauna last?

With proper maintenance, a cedar sauna can last decades, making it a long-term investment.

3. Is cedar better than other sauna woods?

Cedar is preferred for its aroma, moisture resistance, and longevity. Other woods like hemlock or spruce are used, but cedar’s natural oils provide additional protection and scent.

4. Do cedar saunas require special maintenance?

Relatively low-maintenance: regular cleaning, occasional oiling, and proper ventilation are sufficient.

5. Are cedar saunas safe for people with allergies?

Most people tolerate cedar well, but individuals with wood allergies may need to avoid it due to its aromatic oils.

Tips for Enhancing Your Cedar Sauna Experience

Aromatherapy Boost: Add essential oils to the sauna for extra relaxation.

Proper Hydration: Drink water before and after sessions to replenish fluids.

Comfortable Seating: Use cedar benches or towels to protect skin from heat.

Mix Heat Therapy: Alternate sauna sessions with cool-down periods or showers for cardiovascular and recovery benefits.

Final Thought on Cedar Saunas

Cedar saunas are the top choice for home or outdoor installations. They combine beauty, durability, and natural wellness benefits, making them a favorite among sauna enthusiasts. By understanding proper maintenance and usage, a cedar sauna can provide decades of relaxation, health benefits, and a truly luxurious experience.